Active Treatment for Long Term Addictions Management

April 29, 2016

Research has shown that long term drug abuse results in changes in the brain that persist long after a person stops using drugs. These drug induced changes in brain function can have many behavioral consequences, including an inability to exert control over the impulse to use drugs despite adverse consequences that are the defining characteristics of addiction.

Treatment enables people to counteract addictions powerful disruptive effects on the brain and behavior and to regain control of their lives. Because our lives have so many different dynamics, the ripple created by addiction is wide and far reaching. It effects the individual, their job, their families and the other people around them.

Treatment varies and treatment success varies but the important thing to remember is that treatment entails consistent engagement. To be effective, treatment must address the individuals drug abuse and any associated medical, physical, social, vocational or legal problems. Nearly all addicted individuals believe at the outset that they can stop using on their own and most try to stop without treatment. Although some may be successful many attempts result in failure to achieve long term abstinence. Research indicates that active participation in treatment is an essential element for good outcomes and can benefit even the most severely addicted individuals.

Like other chronic diseases, addiction can be managed successfully. Treatment enables people to counteract addictions. The chronic nature of the disease means that relapsing is not only possible but also likely with relapse rates similar to those for other well characterizes chronic medical illnesses, such as diabetes, hypertension and asthma, that also have both physiological and behavioral components.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of addiction, you don’t have to go it alone. Help is available. Call today.